| Unit | Size | Supported weight | Resistance | Exercise meter | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SNODE R16 Check Discounted Price | L:46" W:22" H:36.6" | 300 lbs | Manual magnetic, 8 levels | Time, Distance, Speed, Calories, ODO, SCAN, | 1 year |
The SNODE R16 is one of the recumbent exercise bikes released in 2019, but it is still available at the moment. In terms of features, it can be compared with the Marcy NS-908R. However, it has a pulse reading function which is quite a plus.
Key Features and Specifications
- Assembled dimensions: 46L x 22W x 36.6H inches (117L x 56W x 93H cm)
- Assembled weight: 50.7 lbs (23 kg)
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs (136 kg)
- Resistance: Magnetic, 8 levels
- Console: Time, distance, odometer, speed, calories, pulse, scan
- Extras: Device holder
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Frame construction
The SNODE R16 recumbent bike features a two-piece frame; the front frame section holds the drive and 
resistance elements, while the rear part supports the seat. The two frame parts connect in the middle; the seat base bar features several adjustment positions so you can basically extend or reduce the length of the bike.
The bike’s frame is made of steel tubing. It combines rectangular, cylindrical, and ovalized bars in its construction for improved aesthetics. All the steel bars in the bike’s construction are double-coated with a corrosion-resistant and chip-resistant paint finish. The color used is black, this being the only color available for this recumbent bike. Also, the covers of the flywheel and the other drive elements are made of durable ABS plastic. They’re dark gray in color to match the rest of the bike.
Compared to other recumbent bikes, such as the Sunny SF-RB4953, for example, the SNODE R16 is a bit smaller. It is only 46″ (117 cm) long, and 22″ (56 cm) wide. However, it still is recommended to leave at least two feet of clearance all around it.
The fully assembled bike does not weight too much either. Its net weight is only 50.7 lbs (23 kg), so it can easily be assembled by only one person. Plus, its front base bar features a set of wheels that can ease its relocation, while the rear base bar features adjustable polygonal caps which can act as levelers.
Seat and handlebars
The SNODE R16 features a seat designed for optimal comfort. Both the seat pad and the backrest pad integrate
a 2″ (5 cm) thick layer of foam cushioning. Their covers are made of durable vinyl material which is also sweatproof.
The seat itself does not have an adjustment system like the seat of the XTERRA SB120 bike, for example. But as we’ve mentioned above, the whole rear frame assembly is adjustable. Its base bar has several adjustment positions and connects to the front piece with a large knob. This being said, the bike can accommodate users up to 6’1″ (185 cm) allowing a complete leg extension. Also, the seat base consists of two solid steel bars and can support users up to 300 lbs (136 kg).
It’s important to mention, though, that the backrest does not adjust independently from the seat. It does not have a reclining feature, nor you can adjust its height.
The SNODE R16 is equipped with two sets of handlebars, one attached to the seat assembly, the other to the front mast of the bike. The seat handlebars are equipped with metallic pulse sensors. Therefore, by holding on to them, the included performance monitor can keep track of your heart rate.
The front handlebars attach directly to the front upright bar. They are curved towards the user to minimize the lateral impact on the wrists. The front upright bar is also curved towards the user so using these handlebars while pedaling does not lead to an awkward position which might be the case with other upright bikes.
Both handlebar sets have rubberized grips for extra comfort. Also, they both attach to the corresponding frame bars via screws so they are non-adjustable.
Resistance and drive
The SNODE R16 recumbent exercise bike is equipped with a standard magnetic resistance system. The
resistance adjustment is done manually, so the bike doesn’t require a power adapter or an external power source. But on the other hand, it does not have pre-set workout programs.
The bike’s resistance system consists of a magnetic brake attached under the internal flywheel and connected to the tension knob on the front upright bar through a steel cable. Thus, by turning the knob, the brake moves closer or farther from the flywheel, increasing or decreasing the pedaling difficulty.
Like most other magnetic upright or recumbent exercise bikes, the SNODE R16 offers 8 levels of resistance. The first level is fairly light, great for recovery training, or muscle toning. The 8th level does not provide a super difficult pedal tension, but definitely offers more resistance than the first level, simulating a hill climb.
The bike’s drivetrain uses a poly-v belt. Considering that it’s a belt-drive and not a chain, you won’t have to worry about taking the drive unit apart to lubricate the drivetrain. Also, the belt generates less vibration than a chain so it contributes to the overall smoothness of the ride.
The exact weight of the internal flywheel is not specified. However, considering that the bike itself is pretty light, the flywheel probably doesn’t weigh more than 15 lbs (6.8 kg). It is perimeter-weighted, though, which adds inertia and improves pedaling stability. Plus, it is bi-directional; this means you can pedal in reverse. Coasting is not possible, though; so, when you pedal backward, you will benefit from the same resistance as when you pedal forward.
The bike is equipped with a 3-piece crank. Needless to say, since it’s a recumbent bike, its pedals are not made for standing up while pedaling. The pedals are weighted, so they always turn face-up when you remove your feet from them. They also have adjustable straps which can be quite a plus for users with certain disabilities, who have to secure their legs on the pedals.
Performance monitor
The SNODE R16 is equipped with a basic performance monitor. This means it does not have pre-set 
programs or online connectivity. It also does not offer the possibility to select goals for time, distance, or calories.
The bike’s performance monitor unit features an LCD display that tracks time, distance, total distance, speed, calories burned, and pulse. It’s important to mention, though, that the pulse reading function only works if you hold on to the sensors integrated into the seat handlebars. The monitor unit is not telemetric and cannot read your pulse from a wireless heart rate chest strap.
The monitor unit features only one button which basically has two main functions. One, you can press it repeatedly to select any of the workout metrics that you want to view on the display. This way, you can also select its Scan function which automatically rotates all the metrics, showing each one for a few seconds. And two, you can reset all the values on the monitor by pressing and holding the button for a few seconds.
The bike’s performance monitor is battery-powered. It starts up when you press the button or when you begin pedaling. It also automatically turns off after a few minutes of inactivity on the bike, to save battery life.
Last but not least, the bike’s monitor unit incorporates a media holder. This accessory consists of a small shelf placed above the unit’s button. It is large enough to support any smartphone or tablet, but the monitor unit does not have any connection ports for your device.
Assembly and Maintenance
The bike’s drive and resistance elements are already assembled and attached to the front section of the frame. However, the rest of the parts do require user assembly. Basically, you will have to connect the two main parts of the frame, add the seat pad, the backrest pad, the seat handlebars, the front upright bar, the front handlebars, the two base bars, the pedals, and the performance monitor. This shouldn’t take more than one hour, though. The task is straightforward, the manual provides all the necessary instructions and all the tools needed are included.
Maintenance doesn’t require much. All you have to do is keep the bike clean and periodically check for loose parts. The internal parts shouldn’t need any maintenance for a long period of time.
The Pros
- Durable frame – can support users up to 300 lbs;
- Adjustable stabilizers on the rear base;
- Transport wheels on the front base;
- Cushioned seat with a large and firm backrest;
- Adjustable frame – can accommodate users up to 6’1″;
- Quiet magnetic resistance system;
- Adjustable resistance offering distinct 8 levels;
- Self-leveling pedals with straps;
- Exercise meter that can track time, distance, total distance, speed, pulse, and calories burned;
- Device holder included;
- Fairly easy to assemble;
- Little to no maintenance required.
The Cons
- The performance monitor unit does not have backlight;
- No bottle holder.
Summary
The SNODE R16 is a basic recumbent exercise bike for home use. It features a solid, two-piece steel frame with a weight capacity of 300 lbs and manual magnetic resistance. It integrates a comfortable, cushioned seat and wide backrest, and a performance monitor that tracks all the important workout metrics. It’s a great exercise bike for light cardio training, stamina development, muscle toning, recovery training, and weight loss.